adjective / noun
gallant
Showing courteous attention, especially toward women.
The gallant guest offers his seat with a courteous bow.
Etymology
The French adjective includes a spirited or courtly manner. Its courteous sense developed toward attentive behavior, especially the conventional attentions of a man toward women.
More examples
- The novel presents him as a charming gallant.
- Her companion remained gallant throughout the evening.
- Several gallants gathered around the visiting countess.
Forms
gallant · gallants
Similar words
- courteous
- The neutral adjective without the older gendered association.
- chivalrous
- Chivalrous emphasizes a traditional ideal of respectful protective conduct.